NBA
Mo Bamba Selected 6th Overall In The 2018 NBA Draft By The Orlando Magic
Mohamed Bamba, or Mo Bamba which most call him, has been selected 6th overall in the 2018 NBA Draft by the Orlando Magic. Bamba is the talented freshman from the University of Texas folks have been raving about. His stock coming into the draft was pretty high as teams reportedly were definitely looking to trade up to select him. In his only season at Texas, Bamba averaged 12.9 points, 10.5 rebounds and 3.7 blocks a game.
Mo Bamba’s Draft Profile:
Position: Center
Birthdate: 5/12/98
Height: 7’1″
Weight: 225
Wingspan: 7’10”
Strengths:
Bamba is an incredible shot blocker and is a very good on the offensive glass. He also has quick feet and freakish athleticism that will bode well in the NBA. He’s also a very good lob target at the rim and freakish in transition. The length Bamba possesses also allows him to be dangerous on the glass. In today’s NBA, defensive versatility is needed and Bamba definitely possesses that. He can switch on anyone defensively and can block shots when he gives up ground. He runs the floor very well and when motivated can be deadly in the open court.
Weaknesses:
Every prospect at the college level has weaknesses and Bamba is no exception. His main flaw is his body. He’ll have to add some weight and muscle to avoid being pushed around by other big men. His pick and roll defense at times has been shaky due to his inconsistent motor. On both ends of the floor, his physicality has to be better. He shies away from the physical contact quite a bit, settling for a jump shot instead of going to the basket strong. His offensive game and footwork are a work in progress.
Expectations For Bamba In Orlando:
What should Magic fans expect from Bamba? He has all of the physical tools to be a superstar. He’s smart and very gifted. Once he works on his body, shooting touch, and his motor, he has a chance to potentially be the franchise big man the Magic haven’t had since Dwight Howard left in 2012.
